More action across the Security Industry, lets get this done...

In an era where the spectre of terrorism lingers ominously, the imperative for proactive measures has never been more pronounced. The narrative of Martyn's Law emerges not just as a legislative plea but as a beacon of hope, embodying the collective resolve to fortify our communal spaces against the unseen threats of our time. It is a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who have faced loss and yet stand undeterred in their quest for a safer tomorrow.

This incident, however, was not isolated. Since March 2017, our nation's vigilant intelligence and security agencies have thwarted 39 late-stage terror plots, a stark reminder of the shadow that terrorism casts over us.

Amidst this backdrop, Martyn's Law emerges as a clarion call for change. Inspired by Martyn Hett and the 21 souls who were tragically taken from us in the Manchester Arena bombing, this pioneering legislation seeks to mandate venues to implement proportionate security measures, a move aimed at safeguarding the public against the unpredictable threat of terrorism.

This legislative endeavour, officially known as the Terrorism (Protection and Premises) Bill, represents a watershed moment in our nation's security protocol. It bears the name of Martyn Hett, a poignant reminder of the human lives behind the statistics of terrorism. Championed tirelessly over the past five years, Martyn's Law is on the cusp of becoming a legislative reality, thanks to commitments from leadership at the highest levels, including former Prime Minister Boris Johnson and current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Although they championed it, we need them more than ever to stand forward to protect the people.

Yet, the journey towards enacting Martyn's Law has been fraught with delays, most recently due to a further consultation on its standard tier requirements. This critical period of consultation, concluding on 18 March 2024, offers a unique opportunity for organisations, businesses, and individuals to contribute to shaping a law that is both effective and equitable.

Martyn's Law is not merely about compliance; it is about creating a culture of vigilance and preparedness. It proposes two tiers of security requirements, tailored to be both fair and feasible, ensuring venues can implement measures that genuinely enhance public safety without undue burden.

Moreover, the ethos of Martyn's Law extends beyond the legislative text. It is a call to action for every citizen and business to play a role in our collective security. Counter Terrorism Policing experts advocate for simple yet effective strategies to bolster protective security, from clear communication of reporting procedures to leveraging free security campaigns that enhance visitor safety without instilling fear.

As we approach the seventh anniversary of the Manchester Arena attack, we are reminded of the enduring impact of terrorism on families and communities. Martyn's Law stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the possibility of change. It encapsulates the belief that through collective action, resilience, and the power of legislation, we can forge a path towards a safer, more secure society.

Martyn's Law is more than just legislation; it is a symbol of our unwavering resolve to protect the sanctity of life and the freedom of our public spaces. It's time to get it done. Together, let us honour the memory of those we've lost by building a legacy of safety and security for the generations to come.

One final note..................... to protect people, you should not rest on waiting for legislation to pass. We have had fair warning of terrorism and the impacts it has, so lets all commit to get this done as an industry.